Strategic management in small firms : developing a conceptual framework

This paper develops a five-part framework originally proposed by Mazzarol (2005) for understanding the process of strategic management and growth in small firms. The original paper was conceptual in nature and outlined ten research questions for subsequent research and analysis. Through an analysis of the literature, concurrent research undertaken by the authors, and the findings of a case study of a fast growth small firm, the authors examine eight of the research questions posed by Mazzarol (2005) and discuss their implications within the context of strategic decision making and growth within the small firm. The paper provides support for the original five part framework and outlines issues for future research.